Father Brad Beaupre of St. John Evangelist Catholic Community Church in Viera, conducted a special service before Wednesday night's mass.

Written by

J.D. Gallop
| FLORIDA TODAY

The sounds of a hymn about God shepherding and defending the faithful against harm preceded a special prayer welcoming and celebrating Pope Francis on Wednesday evening, even as many asked questions about a man few had even heard about hours before his selection.

"I just pray that he's able to do what he wants to do," said 67-year-old Joe Tauper, attending a Lenten season service at St. John the Evangelist Church in Viera.

"I think it's great that it finally happened," Tauper said, adding he was slightly concerned about the age of the pope, who is 76. ...